Early Childhood Education - Online Workforce Program

This online program is built for professionals working in settings with children ages birth through five to obtain a bachelor’s degree and Professional Educator License in Early Childhood (birth-grade 2). Students may be fully funded as part of the State of Illinois’ Early Childhood Access Consortium for Equity. 

Submit Interest Form

Features

• 100% Online; 2-year program with a new cohort beginning each semester
  • Fall 2023 cohort plan of study
  • Spring 2024 cohort plan of study
  • Fall 2024 cohort plan of study
  • Spring 2025 cohort plan of study
• Includes Early Childhood Special Education Letter of Approval
• Includes the option for ECE ESL Endorsement
• Higher earning potential and additional career opportunities
• Largest preparer of teachers in Illinois and the Midwest
• Hiring managers across the State report that Illinois State graduates are very well prepared for the field

Eligibility

• Associate of Applied Science (AAS), Associate of Arts or Science (AA/AS) or Bachelor’s degree
  • Must have minimum 2.0 GPA
• Gateways to Opportunity Credential-Level 4

Financial Assistance

• Members of the early childhood education workforce may be eligible for assistance through the Illinois Student Assistance Commission (ISAC). Applicants must be an Illinois resident who is a U.S. citizen or federal eligible noncitizen. 
• The first step for eligibility is to complete the Free Application for Federal Student Aid (FAFSA).

Application Process

• To initiate the pre-admission process, submit the interest form at the top of the page to have Illinois State University representatives review your transcripts and verify Gateway credentials.
• Submit unofficial transcripts from all previously attended institutions of higher education and your Gateways Professional Development Record or your Gateways Credential certificate.
• Once you are pre-approved for the program, you will be given further instructions to complete your official application for admission to Illinois State University.

Register for an Information Session

Student Teaching

• Current students can submit their student teaching application beginning Monday, March 18.

Submit student teaching application

Questions?

• Review frequently asked questions
• Contact Yadira Ramirez at ycramir@ilstu.edu.